Take a few different personality inventories and reflect on the results. Then, conduct some personal interviews by asking friends, family, trusted teachers and coaches about the skills and traits they see in you. You can use all of that information to build a portfolio to help with everything from your college or job search, resume and cover letter, and personal statement.

STEP 1:
Create a "You" Profile

• Traits: List the key personality traits that emerged from your tests and interviews.
• Strengths: Make a list of your confirmed strengths, with examples. How can you leverage these more in your life?
• Areas for Growth: Identify a few areas that you can genuinely improve. What steps can you take?
• Skills: Differentiate between "traits" (who you are) and "skills" (what you can do). How can you develop these further?

STEP 2:
Develop an Action Plan

• Set small goals: If you discovered you’re an introvert who needs alone time to recharge, schedule that time for yourself. Actually write it on your calendar! If you learned you’re a natural leader, think about stepping up in the groups you’re currently a part of or join a public speaking club such as Toastmasters.
• Embrace your uniqueness: There’s no "right" personality. Understanding yours helps you play to your strengths. And it’s not arrogant to promote those strengths when you’re applying for a school, job or internship.
• Be kind to yourself: Self-discovery is a journey. It’s about understanding, not judging. We all have things we’re not great at; some, you can choose to work on and improve, while others, you can accept for what they are and move on.

Note from Noah – My parents are super driven and career-oriented, which is not my vibe at all. But they have had some pretty good ideas about how to get a handle on who I am as a person and how to start connecting that to potential school and career ideas. Consider the portfolio idea as my gift to you (at least, those of you who are stumbling around a bit like me).